Under highly precise temperature control, thermo induction brings glass into a state which grasps the beauty of optical effects. The nature of the process allowed us to develop an adaptable tool with which to customise the deformation and create a continuous flow across multiple glass panels – a paradigm shift from the traditional concept of repeating a single panel. – generative design as Liquidkristal.
Official Statement:
Lasvit Liquidkristal (LLK), designed by Ross Lovegrove is a new product from Lasvit’s Glass Architecture Division. Lasvit Liquidkristal is the result of an innovative process that the designer defines as “high precision heat transfer.” Lovegrove worked with Lasvit for more than a year to create the mobile, changing surfaces, inspired by the fluid, organic forms found in nature. The company deployed its most advanced technology to produce the transparent, undulating crystal panels, which appear dynamic, changing, capable of transmuting their shapes in a futuristic kaleidoscope. LLK combines technology and design to create a new architectural product, replacing the enormous monotony typical of large glass structures with natural surfaces and their abundant variety, richness and coherence. Via fluid dynamics, Lovegrove Studio and Lasvit digitally explored large-scale distribution and densification of patterns found in nature. Working with mathematical models, the behavior of glass was simulated under controlled thermo induction. This produced a highly informed line code, which serves as the blueprint for the production process, where highly precise temperature control imbues the glass surface with the beauty of optical effects seen in water. Working with Lovegrove, Lasvit’s research facilities developed a special flexible mold system to capture this effect. The finished product is highly customisable, allowing large-scale pattern aggregations over multiple sheets. Liquidkristal serves as Lasvit’s bridge to the world of architecture, useful as a crystal partition or screen and as insulated glass units for exterior facades. There are several uses of this new surface, ranging from pavilions in interior and exterior environments, such as divisions in public spaces or boutiques, to partition walls or large, spectacular full length windows capable of transforming a building’s architecture.
Generally my core work within the studio is streamlined through an experimental evolution, free from conventional markets and production constraints.
This culminates in limited edition artwork and defines the studio ambition. This then generates knowledge and ideas to later inform market products in all scales and fields.
As generative design LLK channels both approaches by comparing the enormous monotony found within large glass structures with natural surfaces and their abundant richness, coherency and variety.By exploring the underlying forces and behaviors of these phenomena, combined with an understanding of glass as a pure and optical medium we connect two digital approaches.Via fluid dynamics we digitally explore large scale distribution and densification of patterns found in nature. Working with mathematical models we simulate glass behavior under controlled thermo induction. This results in Liquidkristal a highly informed line code, which serves as the blueprint for our production process.Having Lasvit and their exceptional research facilities – under the lead of Tomáš Kamenec – as partner we are developing a special flexible mould system. Under highly precise temperature control, thermo induction brings glass into a state which grasps the beauty of optical effects within water and is highly customizable to enable large scale pattern aggregations over multiple sheets – generative design as Liquidkristal.
Christoph Hermann – Head of Architecture
LLK panels can be fixed into construction profiles or into building construction assembly grooves. On request, the panels can be affixed to concrete based projects. The organic pattern, based on the repetition of the glass raster, continuously flows from one panel to the next, without interruption between fixing lines. Colours and glass. The panels can be made in a variation of colors which refer to the variation of colors used for the regular sheet architeture glass panels. The panels are also available in frosted glass adaption and in metal coating adaption (available only for the non-pattern glass of the insulated glass unit).
Also a UV foil can be added on the glass panels.
Size of panels from 80 × 80 cm to 270 × 370 cm